A thrilling pre-season encounter saw Burntwood Town FC narrowly beaten by Shenstone Pathfinder.
Taking on opposition from a division above, Mike Gentles’ men gave their all but found their higher league opposition in good form.
The game began brightly with both sides knocking the ball around well without making no real headway.
Town created the first chance when midfielder Dean Williams tested the home keeper.
But on 17 minutes they fell behind when Shenstone created their first chance and took it after a well-worked free-kick routine saw the ball find the net.
Burntwood reacted well as they kept the ball and eventually found a way through just after the half-hour mark. Luke Edwards headed on for Williams to round the keeper and net.
Both managers rang the changes at half-time but Town were again in impressive form in the second period, Bell and Healy both testing the Pathfinder keeper.
But with the hosts keeping Burntwood at bay there was always a chance of them getting their noses in front and with time running out they caught Town out on the counter attack.
Despite the last gasp disappointment, Gentles admitted he was still taking plenty of positives from the game.
“I was proud of them and am pleased with how the squad is shaping up,” said the Burntwood boss.
